VISITORS have been flocking to a new £12 million leisure centre which opened its doors a week ago.

Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, in the centre of the town, offers the latest facilities and replaces the old Tudor Grange and Norman Green leisure centres which will now be demolished.

Mayor of Solihull, Coun Gary Allport, declared the leisure complex open at a special ceremony last Tuesday, enabling old and young alike to take a tour of the centre which boasts a 25 metre, eight- lane swimming pool and a 100-station fitness suite with views over parkland.

And Austin Gordon, general manager for Parkwood Leisure, which will be running the centre, said the feedback they had received from customers had been "fantastic".

"We've been getting a lot of positive feedback from people and sold 120 memberships for the centre in just three days," said Mr Gordon.

"People have been impressed by the pools and how bright and airy the centre.

"Customers have also said they like the sofas and the relaxation and activity areas.

"The fitness suite has also impressed people.

"As with anything new, we've had a few negative comments which has included people complaining about our no shoes policy in the changing rooms, but a lot of that is people not liking change because they didn't have to do it before.

"We've also had a few teething problems with our phone system but that will be sorted out.

"We're very excited to be open at last." The leisure centre also boasts an indoor tennis court and cafe.

Solihull Council raised the money for the building work by controversially selling off land at Monkspath Hall Road which is being turned into a retirement home for ex-servicemen by the Royal Star and Garter charity.

* To find out more about the new leisure centre, call 0121 705 6371 or log on to www.leisure-centre.com